Meet Lynette Tan, a mentor with the Her World Mentorship Programme 2024

Being a woman in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) can often mean being the lone female voice in meetings, or the unintentional target of unconscious biases. For the second year of our Her World Mentorship Programme, we want to empower young women by providing them the tools, guidance, and support needed to break down these barriers and overcome limiting beliefs.

Nine exceptional mentors – each with a wealth of experience and expertise – tell us why they are passionate about giving back and share the wisdom they’ve gleaned throughout their careers. 

Meet Lynette Tan, the CEO of Space Faculty

Many might not be aware that Singapore has a space industry, and there is one woman who is responsible for building our aerospace capabilities for the last decade, undertaking various roles. Lynette Tan’s most recent venture is Space Faculty, which develops learning and leadership opportunities in the space (pun intended), noting the acute scarcity in talent limiting the sector globally.

We might not be sending astronauts to Mars any time soon, but building Singapore’s space capabilities is crucial in building our nation’s satellite technologies. “I built the Space Faculty to make space ubiquitous. There are no geographical boundaries, and we are limited only by our imagination,” says the gregarious innovator.

What are the challenges faced by women in STEM?

Unconscious bias is something that exists regardless of industry. In fact, this type of “inherent blind spot” that is so often coded into how we think and see the world is a challenge that we all need to work together to overcome. And unconscious bias against women is something both men and women have.

Most STEM fields are inherently male-dominated, so there is often pressure for women to do more – be better, work harder – whether it’s real or imagined.

Interestingly, in the space sector, there is a greater culture of inclusivity today than in many other STEM fields. It may have something to do with how the space industry is a growing and challenging sector to be in, so its demand on talent is particularly high.

What excites you most about the potential impact of a mentorship programme like this?

The Her World Mentorship programme is exactly the kind of initiative we need to remove barriers and break glass ceilings. The programme aligns perfectly with what Space Faculty is trying to do, which is to pave the way for entry to STEM and space careers. I’m excited that I get to work closely with my mentee, and support them in ways that are personalised to exactly what they need at that point in their career and personal development.

I’m also looking forward to a dynamic exchange of ideas and experiences – I’m looking forward to having my world view challenged.

How can one future-proof their career?

It’s about constantly building up on both hard and soft skills. Increasingly, building up hard skills will get easier because there is greater access to courses. The key is to set up a regular cadence – like picking up a new skill every 18 months, and finding a platform to apply those skills. In terms of soft skills, being part of a programme like the Her World Mentorship is a great way to start.

One piece of advice you wish you had received early on in your career?

Be brave. Never apologise for having a different point of view from the rest of the room.

What would you say to those who are considering a career in STEM?

I would tell them that careers in STEM are going to rewrite the operating systems of our world. So be a part of the movement – make sure we represent the voice of women when we work towards a better world for the future.

PHOTOGRAPHY Veronica Tay

OFFICIAL BEAUTY PARTNER Cle de Peau Beaute

ART DIRECTION Ray Ticsay & Adeline Eng

STYLING Neo Lirong, assisted by Sabrina Kong

HAIR & MAKEUP Benedict Choo, Aung Apichai and Clayton Goo, all using Cle de Peau Beaute

LOCATION Mandala Club